PhD Student in Experimental Nuclear Physics: Neutron-Induced Reactions at Uppsala University, Sweden

Summary

Uppsala University invites applications for a full-time PhD position in experimental nuclear physics within the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Division of Applied Nuclear Physics. The project investigates neutron‑induced reactions that emit light ions, focusing on the transition from compound‑nucleus to pre‑equilibrium and direct‑reaction dynamics. Research will be conducted mainly at the Neutrons for Science facility at GANIL in France, with data analysis using codes such as TALYS. The position starts 1 February 2027 (or as agreed) and the deadline for applications is 30 October 2026. Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field, possess strong English skills, programming experience, and be willing to travel for extended research visits.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Physics and Astronomy, Division of Applied Nuclear Physics
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Experimental Nuclear Physics
Research Area	Neutron-induced reactions and light-ion emission
Degree Required	Master’s degree in physics, engineering physics, nuclear engineering, applied physics, or a related field
Salary	Not specified
Language	English
Deadline	2026-10-30
Employer Contact	Diego Tarrío, [email protected]

About the Project

The doctoral project will study competing nuclear‑reaction mechanisms in neutron‑induced reactions that emit light ions, aiming to improve reaction models and nuclear‑data libraries. Experiments will be performed at the NFS facility at GANIL, measuring production cross‑sections and angular distributions of emitted ions across various neutron energies. Results will be used to assess and refine pre‑equilibrium and direct‑reaction dynamics models.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental research at the NFS facility at GANIL, France
• Simulate, prepare, optimise, and develop the Medley experimental setup
• Participate in measurement campaigns at GANIL with researchers and technical specialists
• Analyse experimental data using nuclear‑reaction codes such as TALYS
• Compare measurements with model calculations, especially for pre‑equilibrium reactions
• Communicate findings through publications and conference presentations
• Undertake extended research visits to GANIL and potentially other international facilities

Required Skills

• Good knowledge of physics, nuclear physics and radiation detection
• Programming experience in Python or C++
• Ability to work independently and in a structured way
• Good collaboration skills
• Strong written and spoken English
• Willingness and availability to travel for research and conferences

Who Should Apply

Applicants who have a Master’s degree in physics, engineering physics, nuclear engineering, applied physics or a related discipline, strong knowledge of nuclear physics and radiation detection, programming skills in Python or C++, excellent written and spoken English, and are willing to travel for research visits should apply.

About the Employer

Uppsala University, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Division of Applied Nuclear Physics, located in Uppsala, Sweden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the start date of the position?

The position starts on 1 February 2027, or as agreed.

How many positions are available?

One position is available.

Is a cover letter required?

No, applicants answer questions in the application instead of submitting a cover letter.

What language proficiency is required?

Strong written and spoken English is required.

Where will the research be conducted?

Primarily at the Neutrons for Science (NFS) facility at GANIL in Caen, France, with possible visits to other international facilities.